We are in the 4th Sunday after Pentecost. I guess we are enjoying the summer weather with many things on our mind, like planning for a good summer vacation or outdoor activities with the whole family. When travelling, however, always include God in your plans. Stay connected with God in prayer and fulfill your Sunday obligation.
We have inspiring readings today from the epistle and the gospel teaching us to hope in the face of humanity and to find comfort and consolation in this present affliction.
The epistle from the letter of St. Paul to the Romans states that the sufferings of this present time “are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to come, that shall be revealed to us.” Human suffering is the consequence of man’s iniquity and sin. However, there is Goodnews. Our Lord Jesus Christ and His gospel are the only explanation and solution to our human sufferings. We need to learn how to be reconciled and to submit ourselves to God. When there is the great possibility to be reconciled with God and others, then we have a new way of viewing life in the world. We fix our mind and spirit to that incomparable glory, which is to come as promised to us in Christ. Are you groaning with creation? We should not be discouraged and hopeless in finding the promise and plan of God. We are all adopted children of God and, therefore, cast ourselves in His compassion and love.
In today’s gospel pericope we find some interesting passages about a fruitful life with Jesus. We are also challenged about how receptive we are to hear the Word of God. Jesus is the embodiment of God in the world.
First, Jesus saw two ships on the shore, and he went into one of the ships which belongs to Simon Peter. He requested to move the ship a little closer to the shore, and then sitting He started to teach the multitude. (v3) I believe that people participated in Jesus’ spiritual teaching and He consoled so many people, but are we in the same boat where Jesus is?
Following the example of Jesus, our task is to evangelize in order to spread the seed of the Good News. We share the Word of God thru good deeds and actions toward everyone we encounter. Jesus never promises us that we will see the fruit of our work for evangelization in our lifetime, but it is nice to talk about it or try coming to mass for a better understanding of our faith.
Second, the disciples were frustrated about having no catch after a long night fishing. Simon said, “Master we have labored all night.” It was Simon’s honest answer to Jesus. It is normal to be frustrated when at times we can hardly realize some of our expectations in life. What happened to Simon Peter was that he was probably losing hope that day. It was difficult for him as he was trying to catch fish for his family, but after fishing all night he came up empty handed.
We encounter many people in the same situation. Though we are fortunate to walk with them on their journey, have we understood the condition they are in at their lowest moment? Probably, their spiritual life is dry and been dormant for years, just looking for someone who can lift up their downtrodden spirit. Like Jesus who has been sensible towards others, we too must keep an eye out for those who are willing to find out a little more out of an act of charity and fraternal accompaniment.
Third, Jesus says to Simon, “Launch out into the deep.” (vv.4-5) This is Jesus’ words of opportunities. The challenge for Simon and the other disciples is to do what Jesus’ commands. Following what is in Jesus’ heart for them is to achieve and to fulfill right here and right now. What is Christ calling us to do?
I think our readings today present a unique challenge. Perhaps, God is telling you something, maybe you have even felt something, but you have not followed through with it. Are you willing to see for yourself if Jesus is real and if He is trying to speak with you in your solitude in prayer? Maybe we are just lazy to explore, so take a little time to listen.
Jesus says, “Fear not.” “Do not be afraid.” These words assure us that Jesus is giving us the grace to hope by submitting ourselves to His divine plan….we can work together in faith and journey together as brothers and sisters following Jesus, for He has an abundant promise if we just leave everything and faithfully follow Him.
Ask the Holy Spirit to be with you and to help understand what God is telling you. When a word or phrase comes to you, let it sink into your heart. Ask Jesus what he wants you to do about it. Let His word bear fruit in your life.
God bless you.
Fr. Arlon, osa
